Senior Travel: Solo or in a Group
Source: rocket50
By: Janet Peischel rocket50 Contributor
Date: August 29, 2023
Looking for adventure, or whatever comes our way
In an earlier article I wrote about creating A Nomadic Lifestyle After 60. My own experience is based on more than 40 years of solo travel. I love new adventures, and I’m pretty savvy about getting around by myself. Nevertheless, there is one inevitable day on every trip that I just give up to the Gods. It’s one really screwed-up day that usually ends up costing more money and/or time. While I know I’ll get through it, I admit that sometimes it would be a huge relief to have a companion to help negotiate the confusing details of foreign travel.
Organized Travel Programs
For older Americans who enjoy their independence, but are looking for the structure of a group, travel companies are finally understanding that seniors are on the move! We’re interested in learning about new countries, their cultures, politics and history. The following is a list of travel programs. The list is neither exhaustive nor inclusive; rather, a starting place. There are lots of companies that now are tailoring tours for senior travelers.
I’ve also included a list of Travel & Leisure’s best international destinations for solo travel. Iceland tops the list, but there’s no mention of Dubai, which seems to be a hot destination these days.
Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises operates ocean and river cruises, and they also feature expeditions. It’s the river cruises that appeal to me. Eight to ten days on the Danube. Or there’s the “Treasures of the Rhine” cruise: Ten days, eight tours, four countries. “Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultures of the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO site, terraced vineyards dating back to the Romans and the region’s renowned red and white wines.”
These tours start at around $2,000, and $25 saves you a spot! Viking River Cruises also operate in Asia and Egypt, and their ocean cruises go to places like Easter Island, Asia and Australia. For the more adventuresome, Viking Expeditions travel to the Arctic and Antarctica.
Starting price: $2K
Road Scholar
Road Scholar differentiates itself by promising to make its guests active learners rather than passive tourists. You’ll learn from expert faculty and meet others who share a love of learning and adventure.
From the extensive adventure dropdown, I chose Winter in Spain: “Soak in history in Granada, Málaga and Alfarnatejo, where you’re invited into the homes of local families for an unforgettable cultural exchange.” This trip is designed for small groups, and it lasts for eight days. They promise to “make history come to life on an expert-led excursion to the Moorish palaces of the ancient Alhambra.” I’ve been to the Alhambra, and it really is pretty amazing.
Cost: 8 days, $1,699
For all of the pet lovers out there: Trusted Housesitters
Trusted Housesitters is predicated on taking care of someone’s home and pet while they’re gone. The website lists the pet’s owners and shows the home, the pets and describes habits, feeding schedules, etc. The way this generally works is that you arrive, check in and live in the home and care for the pet while the owner is gone. I just logged in and found a woman in Helsinki who travels frequently and needs someone to care for her cat for three weeks in September.
The pet parents provide free accommodation in return for looking after their home and furry friends. You’re saving the cost of lodging and agreeing to feed the pets a couple of times a day and take them out for walks. That gives you plenty of time to be a tourist.
The only cost is your annual membership to Trusted Housesitters, making it an affordable and interesting travel option. To be a petsitter, you need to pass a background check and become certified as well as pay a registration fee. I’m always looking for offshore locations, but there are many people here in the US who also are looking for home and petsitters, so it’s worth taking a look.
Travel & Leisure: Best tours for seniors
Travel & Leisure lists a number of groups and tours that are good fits for seniors. Most feature small groups that provide companionship, while also allowing for individual independence. Having someone to schlep your bags and whisk you from one destination to another could become a nice habit. Even when traveling light, navigating city metro systems with stairs can be challenging.
Overseas Adventure Travel/OAT
With Overseas Adventure Travel you’ll “journey off the beaten path to see more of the world and experience local culture in a small group of 8-16 travelers. OAT travelers are active Americans over 50 who are young at heart, interested in experiencing destinations–not just seeing them.” Think lifelong learners and a wide range of countries and tours. I spent a month in Dubrovnik last October. It was a perfect time to be there–the weather was lovely and the crowds were way down.
A trip to Croatia: Dubrovnik, Karanac, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Opatija. Montenegro: Kotor: $4,095 for 18 days.
Walking the World
Walking the World offers full-immersion hiking to some of the world’s most amazing destinations. Tours are both domestic and international–from Utah and the Rocky Mountains to Norway’s fjords and the 34 miles of the Amalfi coast.
Cost-Amalfi Coast/9 days: $4,095
Other travel tours/groups for seniors worth checking out
Rocky Mountain National Park tour,
25 best international destinations for solo travel
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Iceland. There's a reason why Iceland has consistently ranked among the hottest destinations in recent years: The country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors. There are caverns and caves, volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal spas in which to soak in. The best time to go to Iceland? Between September and March to see the Northern Lights, or between June and August for summer activities.
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Costa Rica has long had a reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world for a reason. There are plenty of outdoor activities, from whitewater rafting and zip lining through gorgeous rainforests to rappelling down waterfalls. Costa Rica is known for its ecotourism.
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New Zealand is a popular destination for backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers striking out on their own. It’s also the second most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. First place? Iceland.
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Mexico. With a thriving backpacker culture and accommodating resorts, Mexico is an optimal place for any type of solo trip. Locals are friendly and the country is dotted with fascinating history, cultural sites and a beautiful natural landscape. But resorts are limiting and the same the world over. Mexico City has much to offer and there’s a vibrant art scene in San Miguel de Allende, with an expat community of more than 10K people.
More of Travel & Leisure’s destinations for solo travelers.
Big Mistake: “I’ll never do that again”
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Not arranging for a wheelchair when needed. Editor’s note: If you’ve not traveled internationally lately and will be catching a connecting flight, know that you will be doing a LOT of walking. Take this tip seriously if you’re not up for a long hike.
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Be sure your medical insurance will cover expenses when traveling outside the U. S., or arrange an additional policy. Medicare does not cover expenses incurred outside the country.
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That sinking feeling. “We missed our flight. Between traffic, checking bags, the security line, and a long walk to the departure gate, we got there about two minutes too late. It was frustrating and expensive to rebook on a later flight."
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Choose shore excursions carefully when planning a cruise. Consider arranging private tours or just enjoying time on the ship. You might overspend if you sign up for everything before leaving.
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Know the person you plan to travel with before you go on a trip with them. Travel is very hard on relationships.
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Use the airline’s website or app to check your trips frequently, in case there have been any changes in departure times or aircraft. They change these frequently and airlines these days seem to have little accountability.
A nomadic lifestyle can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. It keeps you active, engaged and constantly learning. If you’re traveling with others, you’re creating memorable experiences with loved ones. It’s a chance to explore new cultures and meet new people, making the most of these precious years.
Janet Peischel is a rocket50 writer and the Owner of Top of Mind Marketing. She writes about lifestyle issues, products and trends of the 50+ population. “We represent a huge market that’s vocal, active, and determined to stay active and involved!”
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